Beware menace of fraudsters on your doorstep say cops

Beware menace of fraudsters on your doorstep say cops

RESIDENTS are being urged to watch out for bogus callers trying to con their way into homes.

South Ayrshire Localities Policing team are warning residents that people will claim to be charity collectors and tradespeople before trying to rob them of cash and valuables.

Sergeant Nichol, Locality Policing Team Supervisor said: “Sadly these people target the most vulnerable people within our communities. I would urge everyone to be extra vigilant.

“If any person within the community has concerns or suspicions, please obtain as much detail as possible about them and take note of their descriptions, services and vehicles at the time and then contact your local police station.

“Doorstep criminals are known to target the elderly and vulnerable so if you are visiting friends, family or speaking with neighbours then please make them aware of doorstep criminals.

“My advice would be that we don’t deal with people who attend at your home address uninvited – don’t answer the door or politely decline their services and close the door”.

The warnings come not long after a spate of break-ins in the Ayr area. Last weekend a man was arrested for forcing his way into a property in Craigie Avenue. It came shortly after an arrest was made for a man allegedly breaking into a pensioners home in Park Circus and attempting to rob him by demanding he be driven to a nearby cash machine.

Police have advised that rogue traders usually cold-call properties impersonating companies such as the council or utility companies.

Anyone with information on crime in their community is encouraged to contact Police Scotland by calling the national non-emergency number 101 (in an emergency always dial 999). Information can also be passed to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

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